What binds small nuclei together?

Small nuclei are bound together by the strong nuclear force, which is a fundamental interaction that acts between protons and neutrons. This force is mediated by particles called gluons and is effective at very short ranges, overcoming the electromagnetic repulsion between positively charged protons. The balance between the strong nuclear force and the repulsive forces among protons is crucial for the stability of small nuclei. In very small nuclei, such as those with few nucleons, the strong force is sufficient to keep them together despite these repulsive forces.